The Ocean Beach MainStreet Association (OBMA) held its annual meeting and awards gala on Oct. 25 to recognize members for their contributions to the Ocean Beach community.

Merchants and members of the community were honored for their volunteerism, creative promotions of their business and best use of the storefront improvement program, among other recognitions.

In total, 26 awards were given to a group of 32 people.

In addition to the awards ceremony, OBMA committees were recognized for their work throughout the year. Highlights included launching the business development series to support local merchants and implementing a 125th anniversary rebrand for OBMA.

“This year’s awards are also a celebration of a huge milestone, our 125th anniversary as a community,” said Denny Knox, OBMA executive director. “Local businesses worked to support the anniversary celebration and our special events throughout the year, so these awards are really an acknowledgement to those people who have gone above and beyond to make our 125th anniversary shine.”

Award categories include promotion, design, economic restructuring, crime prevention and organization. Awards were presented by the chairs of the various OBMA committees.

Guests kicked off the night by citing The OB Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor Jerry Sanders, county Supervisor Ron Roberts and District 2 City Councilman Kevin Faulconer were in attendance and recognized the OBMA for its community spirit and special events.

As a special sendoff to the outgoing Sanders as mayor, the OBMA recognized him with the 2012 Many Thanks Award.

“All politics aside, Mayor Sanders is a friend to Ocean Beach and we will miss him when he’s gone,” said Knox.

For more information on the Ocean Beach MainStreet Association, visit www.oceanbeachsandiego.com.